The Re-dividing of the Reunited Brethren

The polarization process among these assemblies continued. Good and long standing friendships soured. Useful and effective regional and international partnerships came to an end. Is this the apostolic way of dealing with doctrinal differences? Since the 1840’s, the Brethren movement has suffered a number of debilitating divisions. Interestingly, and I think this is a common social phenomena, the motor behind a division soon shifts away from doctrines and focuses on personalities and procedures. This creates a dust cloud which makes it difficult to see the way forward. This eBook, made public in March 2003, was written to encourage clear Biblical thinking during those difficult times. Some doctrines may look good in theory, but when implemented they generate very eccentric behaviour. Rather than gritting teeth and pressing on, we should take note of the “flashing red warning light.” Like Peter, after cutting off an ear to defend the Lord, we should humble ourselves, re-examine our understanding of Scripture, acknowledge our well-intentioned departure, and allow the Lord to heal and restore. This eBook seeks to re-examine four “odd doctrines” which lie at the heart of most divisions among the Brethren.